Through sheer determination, Philadelphia’s Gabriel Rosado went from changing trash bags at Plymouth Meeting Mall to boxing professionally. Matt Breen reported the radical career shift in The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Rosado wanted to fulfill his dream so much that he decided to drop out of Roxborough High School before the end of his freshman year in order to pursue it.

“Boxing had to work out,” he said.

And it did. His lifetime record is 26-17-1, with the latest loss happening on the weekend in the super-middleweight rematch against Bektemir Melikuziev. Still, just being invited to the event in Las Vegas — considered to be the year’s biggest fight card — shows how much he has impressed promoters and network executives.

His fights are always entertaining, as he is well known for always pushing for action. He is also never afraid of a challenge or apologetic about racking up losses against top foes. It is his ability to hold his own and put on a show that keeps him near the top of the sport.

“I think it’s a unique route that I’ve taken,” he said. “I’m probably the only one that’s taken this route.”

Read more about Gabriel Rosado in The Philadelphia Inquirer.

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Rosado’s recent victory over Bektemir Melikuziev.